Before conducting maintenance, what should be done with hydraulic pressure?

Before conducting maintenance on equipment that operates with hydraulic systems, relieving hydraulic pressure is essential for safety. Ensuring that all hydraulic pressure is released minimizes the risk of accidental movement of machinery or equipment, which can lead to serious injuries during maintenance tasks. By relieving the pressure, technicians can safely access and repair components, knowing that there is no residual force that could operate the machinery unexpectedly.

Monitoring the pressure is important during operation and troubleshooting, but it does not address the immediate safety concerns during maintenance. Leaving the pressure unchanged poses a risk because it maintains the potential for hazardous situations where equipment might engage or cause injury. Increasing the pressure would compound these dangers, creating even greater potential hazards during maintenance tasks. Therefore, relieving hydraulic pressure is a crucial step before beginning any maintenance work.